Tungurahua is one of South America's most active volcanoes. Since 2000, a new lava dome has been growing in its summit crater. Tungurahua's activity has been characterized by frequent powerful ash explosions, producing ash plumes of several kilometers height as well as dangerous pyroclastic flows. Part of the population around its base has been evacuated.

A new phase of activity has started at the volcano. So far, surface activity has been low, with minor explosions and steaming, but it is likely that this activity will increase in the near future. ...plus

Since 17 Feb, a gradual increase in seismic activity has been recorded, including the appearance of frequent volcano-tectonic earthquakes since 21 Feb, which reflect rock fracturing, likely caused by pressurized magma intruding into the plumbing system.A small explosion was reported on 18 Feb, and SO2 emissions, also tell tale of fresh magma approaching the surface, were detected. Moderate inflation at the summit was measured as well. [moins]